But it does help in that politicians are motivated by publicity and numbers. Therefore if the number of people attending is high enough and the publicity big enough politicians won't be able to just ignore the situation which is what they have often done. I don't think Bono or Geldolf expect to change the situation immediately, I think instead this time they are looking to shift long term policies toward Africa so there can be an increase in allowing these nations to return to self sufficiency. All the aid in the world won't help if it just becomes a lifestyle, these people need the tools and skills to be self suffficient, that takes time, but it can't be done if the whole contry spends most of it's income paying back loans from the G8. Relieving this debt may be the one thing that helps some of these countries turn the corner. As long as that is even a possibility it needs to happen.
If these famous musicians are willing to entertain you for free and all they are getting is a little free publicity for new projects I don't see a problem. they are spending their time, using their voice the best way they know how. It may not be a perfect way but it beats doing nothing in my book.
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